Book reviews straight from New Zealand to you

Shooting stars – Brian Falkner

I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this book, but I actually loved it. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to connect with Egan, especially after the last book I read taking place in modern day Auckland with a male lead was Into the River. But Egan was very likeable, the prime example of innocence and wonder, something with is usually reserved only for young kids, not older teenagers. It was refreshing to see my city from the eyes of someone new to it, and someone who really doesn’t understand it. Some background, Egan has grown up in hiding in the bush with only his mother for company. His story is about his journey to find his mother who has suddenly disappeared, while trying to avoid his famous father who was very abusive. He travels to Auckland in search of her and experiences a first love among many firsts. The way cursing is approached in this book was adorable, as it’s quite clear Egan doesn’t actually know any, and his interpretations are great. I would recommend this book, it is an excellent story told in journal entries which makes it an easy book to read little and often.